How to Prevent MRSA

MRSA stands for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a bacteria which is resistant to common antibiotics. It usually is found on the skin or in wounds and occasionally the sputum. The infection is easily spread from person to person by skin to skin contact, by touching contaminated surfaces and by poor hygiene. Outbreaks can be found anywhere but especially in hospitals, nursing homes and gyms. To prevent getting MRSA and spreading it, follow the steps below.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Wash your hands. Although people know they should do this, they may not wash well enough to kill bacteria. Use warm water, wash the front and back and between fingers, for at least 30 seconds. Wash before eating and after using the toilet.
2. Clean facets and toilet handles regularly with an antibacterial cleaner. Bacteria can live on these types of surfaces and because they are touched so often, contamination is possible.
3. Keep cuts clean and covered while they heal. Bacteria can enter a wound and mutate into MRSA. Chances are reduced if the wound is covered.
4. Do not share personal care items such as tweezers and razors. Bacteria can easily be transferred from one person to the other.
5. Wipe exercise equipment before and after you use it. MRSA grows easily in warm moist areas such as on exercise equipment that people sweat on.
6. Wear gloves at a hospital or nursing home when visiting a person who has MRSA. The patient's room will have a sign on their door which states they are in contact isolation. Visitors and staff should wear gloves and gowns that are provided as you enter.
7. Be attentive to your care if you are a patient in a hospital. MRSA is spread in a health care setting easily. Ask staff to wash their hands. Inquire on admission how often bedding and bathrooms are cleaned.